Pharmacy is a field that is not only related to health services, but it also has plenty of research, industry and business opportunities. Every year thousands of students in India adopt pharmacy as a career, but the first and most important step in this direction is – choosing a good and recognized pharmacy college.
Many times students and their parents choose a college only on the basis of promotion and advertisement, due to which they later have to regret about quality, studies or placement. Therefore, it is important to keep some important aspects in mind for the right decision.
Clarify your career goal
You should choose your area of interest in pharmacy before starting any college classes. Is being a clinical pharmacist something you are interested in doing in the future? Is your goal to be a doctor who works in a hospital or a scientist who participates in research? Do you want to open a medical store where you live or consider getting a licence in a different country?
If your goals are clear, then college selection will also be easy. For example, if a student wants to pursue MBA along with PharmD so that he can start his own business in future, then he must choose a college that offers dual degree option.
Understand the duration of the course
There are mainly four major pharmacy courses in India:
- Program for D.Pharm is 2 years in duration.
- The Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) is taught over the course of 4 years.
- The M.Pharm program lasts for two years.
It takes 6 years to complete a Doctor of Pharmacy degree; however, if you do a post-baccalaureate first, it takes 3 years.
Some institutes also offer a 3-year ‘Accelerated PharmD’ program which saves time, but the study pressure is more. So, while choosing a course, understand your study style and stamina.
Recognition and reputation of the college
The main consideration is that the college is sanctioned by a reliable group. All pharmacy programs in India are expected to have recognition from the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) as well as the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). It is also important to attach yourself to a state university or deemed university.
If the college is recognized at the national or international level, then its degree and placement value is higher. The quality of education, infrastructure, faculty and industry connections are also better in reputed colleges.
Quality and experience of faculty
The level of a college’s quality depends on its faculty. When the professors and teachers are scientists or professionals, the students have a chance to learn more effectively. Students gain a lot from having tutors, guest lectures, workshops and industrial training at the college.
Labs and practical infrastructure
Pharmacy is a course in which practical is more important than theory. Therefore, the college must have modern labs, research centers, drug analysis equipment, pharmaceutical chemistry labs, and computerized pharmacy systems. The availability of these resources makes students industry-ready.
Fee Structure and Scholarships
Pharmacy studies come with a hefty fee structure, especially when you join a private college. So, understand the fee structure and payment options carefully. Many government and private institutions also offer scholarships or education loans to students.
If you are looking for financial aid, discuss all the options with the college’s financial aid team before admission.
Placement Record and Industry Connections
A good college is also indicated by the type of companies in which its students get placed. If the college has strong partnerships with companies, students get better internships and job opportunities. Major companies in the pharmacy sector such as Cipla, Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s, Lupin, etc. hire from big colleges.
It is also important to see if the college conducts regular career counseling, seminars, and job fairs.
Location and atmosphere of the college
The location of the college also matters a lot. If the college is far away from the city and there is no transport facility, then studies may be hindered. Try to find a college in a place that is convenient for you, such as near the railway station or bus stand.
Apart from this, also review the campus atmosphere, library, hostel, canteen, and extracurricular activities. A good atmosphere makes your entire experience positive.
Alumni network and student support
If a college has a strong alumni network, then the students there feel connected to the industry and also get career guidance. Also, student support systems such as mentoring, counseling, exam guidance, project help, etc. should be available.
International exposure and advanced programs
In today’s era, many colleges are tying up with foreign universities, which gives students exposure at the international level. If a college has international exchange programs, research projects or internship opportunities abroad, then it can add to the development of the students.
Conclusion
Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions for making a career in pharmacy. A reputed college not only gives you better education but also placements, research, and recognition in the business world. So, do not make hasty decisions.Instead of taking a decision, carefully review all the aspects. A good institute not only gives direction to your education but also strengthens the foundation of your career. The right college, right thinking and right preparation are the keys to success.
